New York DMV Title Transfer Guide

How To Transfer A Vehicle Title In New York

Whether you live in the Big Apple or upstate, you’ll want to know how to transfer a car title if you’re buying, selling or gifting a vehicle to a family member in New York.

The following FAQ explains how to transfer your New York car title, along with title transfer requirements and other vital information.

The New York Department of Motor Vehicles (NYS DMV) handles vehicle titles and registrations. If you need assistance, including how to fill out transfer of title form, you can call or visit your local DMV office for guidance and information.

What Do I Need For A New York Title Transfer?

What do you need to transfer a car title? In order to ensure a smooth title transfer process, you should review the title transfer requirements listed below.

If you’re buying a vehicle, you’ll need to sign the vehicle bill of sale and fill out the appropriate DMV title transfer form. In this case, you’ll need a Vehicle Registration/Title Application (Form MV-82).

Where Can I Go To Transfer The Title?

In order to transfer your car title, you’ll need to visit your local NYS DMV office. You can find the location and business hours of your DMV office here.

Some offices regularly experience high customer volumes, which could lead to long wait times. For faster service, the NYS DMV recommends that you make a reservation prior to your arrival.

How Much Is a Title Transfer?

If you’re wondering how much does it cost to transfer a car title, look no further. The NYS DMV charges $50 to transfer a title.

This fee does not include any sales taxes or county-specific fees and surcharges.

How to Transfer a Car Title to a Family Member

The process for transferring a car title to a relative is the same as purchasing a used vehicle from a private owner. Even if the vehicle is being given as a gift, you’ll need to complete a bill of sale.

You can mark the purchase price on the bill of sale as “$0” and indicate the vehicle’s gift status on the Statement of Transaction form.

How To Transfer A NY Car Title When Owner Is Deceased

According the current state law, the surviving spouse of a deceased owner automatically receives ownership of the vehicle as long as it’s valued at $25,000 or less.

Surviving children under the age of 21 can have the vehicle title transferred if the deceased owner does not have a surviving or qualifying spouse.

Transferring A Title After A Lease Buyout

If you decide to purchase a vehicle at the end of your lease term, you’ll need to have the title transferred in your name for complete vehicle ownership. You’ll need to complete Form MV-82 and provide proof of identity, proof of vehicle ownership and proof of sales tax payment.

You’ll need to bring this information, along with the lease buyout agreement and any lien releases needed, to your local DMV office.

You can also mail your information along with the $50.00 title fee to the following address:

My Car Title Was Signed But Never Transferred. What Do I Do?

Keep in mind that it could take up to 90 days to receive your title from the DMV. You can check the status of your title online via the NYS DMV website.

How To Transfer Ownership Of A Car Without A Title

Keep in mind that certain types of vehicles, including vehicles manufactured before the 1973 model year, do not require a title. Instead, you’ll need your transferable registration and a bill of sale to transfer ownership.

If you have a 1973 or newer vehicle, however, you’ll need to have a title in order to complete the transfer of ownership. You can apply for a duplicate title by following the steps mentioned in the section below.

How Can I Get A Duplicate Title?

If you’re requesting a duplicate title for your vehicle, you have two options at your disposal.

You can order your duplicate title online as long as you meet the following requirements:

You’re the current vehicle owner.

Your vehicle is properly titled and registered in New York.

You have a valid U.S. address on file with the NYS DMV.

You’re not requesting any changes to the information on the title.

You won’t be able to order a duplicate title online if the following applies:

You’re requesting a name change on your title.

The title is in the name of a deceased owner.

The title is being ordered through power of attorney.

A title certificate was processed within the last 15 days.

If any of the above applies, you’ll need to apply for a duplicate title in person. You’ll need to file an Application for Duplicate Title and provide a $20.00 fee for processing.

You’ll receive your duplicate title via standard or express mail to the address on the registration record.

NY DMV Hours And Contact Information

For more information regarding questions specific to your situation on how to transfer a car title in New York, visit the NY DMV website here.

Common Questions About New York Title Transfer

Are there any questions about transferring a car title that we didn’t cover?

We are constantly updating our content and welcome your feedback. Leave us a comment and let us know any other questions you might have regarding how to transfer a car title in the state of New York.